Northside Auto Repair News - Maintenance, Service & Specials

Understanding Your Car’s Alternator: Functions, Importance, and Warning Signs

When you’re cruising down the highway on a sizzling summer day, the last thing you want is for your car to break down due to a malfunctioning alternator. At Northside Auto Repair, we’re here to ensure your vehicle remains reliable no matter how high the temperatures soar. Let’s dive into what an alternator does, why it’s crucial for your car’s performance, and how to spot the signs of a failing alternator.

What Does the Alternator Do?

The alternator is a small but mighty component of your car’s electrical system. It plays a pivotal role in keeping your vehicle running smoothly by generating electrical power and charging the battery while the engine is running. Here’s a closer look at its primary functions:

Power Supply: The alternator supplies power to various electrical components in your car, such as the headlights, air conditioning, radio, and windshield wipers. Without it, these essential features would not function properly.
Battery Charging: It ensures that the car battery remains charged. The alternator converts mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy, replenishing the battery’s charge that gets depleted during engine startup and while powering electrical components.
Energy Conversion: Alternators convert alternating current (AC) produced by the engine into direct current (DC) that the battery and other electrical systems in the car can use.

Signs of a Failing Alternator

Just like any other part of your vehicle, the alternator can wear out over time. Recognizing the early signs of a failing alternator can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:

Dim or Flickering Headlights: If your headlights seem unusually dim or flicker while driving, it could be an indication that your alternator is struggling to power them.
Battery Warning Light: Most cars have a dashboard warning light shaped like a battery. If this light comes on, it’s a clear sign that there might be an issue with the alternator or the charging system.
Electrical Failures: Issues with your car’s electrical components, such as power windows moving slowly, malfunctioning radio, or dashboard lights dimming, can indicate an alternator problem.
Strange Noises: A failing alternator may produce unusual sounds, such as grinding or whining. These noises often result from worn-out bearings or other internal components.
Engine Stalling: If your engine stalls or has trouble starting, the alternator might not be providing enough power to keep it running.

What to Do If You Suspect Alternator Problems

If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s essential to act quickly. Ignoring alternator issues can lead to a dead battery, leaving you stranded. Here’s what you can do:

Schedule a Check-Up: Bring your car to Northside Auto Repair for a thorough inspection. Our experienced technicians can diagnose alternator problems and provide prompt repairs to keep you on the road.
Stay Proactive: Regular maintenance is key to preventing alternator failure. During routine check-ups, we’ll ensure your alternator and other vital components are in top condition.
Replace When Necessary: If your alternator is beyond repair, don’t worry. We offer high-quality replacement alternators to restore your vehicle’s performance and reliability.

Understanding the role of your car’s alternator and recognizing the signs of potential problems can save you time, money, and stress. At Northside Auto Repair, we’re dedicated to helping you keep your vehicle in peak condition, especially during the hot summer months. If you suspect any issues with your alternator, don’t hesitate to visit us for a professional check-up.

Stay cool, stay safe, and keep your car running smoothly with Northside Auto Repair!

Protect Your Car Battery from Summer Heat Damage

Summer Heat and Your Car Battery: What You Need to Know

As temperatures rise, so do the risks to your car’s battery. At Northside Auto Repair, we understand that the summer heat is more than just uncomfortable; it’s potentially damaging to your vehicle’s essential components. Your battery powers all the devices in your car, from the lights and consoles to the blowers that keep you cool. Without it, your car simply won’t function.

The Role of Your Car Battery

Your car battery does more than just start your engine. It provides the necessary power to all electronic accessories when the engine is off and acts as a voltage stabilizer for the alternator when the engine is running. A well-functioning battery is crucial for the starter motor, which relies on the battery to get your car up and running.

Heat: The Silent Battery Killer

High summer temperatures can accelerate the chemical reactions inside your battery, leading to overcharging and evaporating the battery fluid more quickly. This not only shortens the overall battery life but also increases the chances of a breakdown.

Here are a few ways the summer heat can damage your battery:

Increased Chemical Activity: The heat speeds up the battery’s chemical reactions, which can lead to overcharging.
Evaporation of Fluids: Hot weather causes the battery fluid to evaporate, which can damage the internal structure.
Corrosion: Higher temperatures can increase the rate of corrosion on battery terminals and connections.

The Importance of the Alternator

Your battery isn’t a standalone component—it works in harmony with your car’s alternator. The alternator recharges the battery while your car is running, ensuring it has enough power for startup and other functions. If your alternator is failing, your battery won’t stay charged, leading to frequent jump starts or even leaving you stranded.

Rebate Opportunity from NAPA

To help our customers combat the effects of summer heat, Northside Auto Repair is pleased to offer a special rebate from NAPA. Get significant savings on NAPA Alternators, Batteries, and Starters when you visit us. This is an excellent opportunity to ensure your car’s electrical system remains in top shape, despite the summer heat.

Visit Northside Auto Repair Today

Don’t let the summer heat catch you off guard. Bring your car to Northside Auto Repair for a comprehensive battery check. Our skilled technicians will ensure your battery, alternator, and starter are all functioning properly, keeping you safe on the road.

Top Summer Auto Repair Service Priorities

Navigating the Heat: Essential Summer Auto Repair Priorities

As the summer heat intensifies, it’s crucial to ensure your vehicle is in top condition to handle the rising temperatures and increased travel. At Northside Auto Repair, we prioritize your safety and comfort on the road. Here are the top summer auto repair priorities you should consider to keep your car running smoothly this season.

1. Brake Inspection and Maintenance

Your vehicle’s braking system is vital for your safety, especially during summer when road trips and stop-and-go traffic are more common. Increased temperatures can affect brake performance, so it’s important to have your brakes inspected for wear and tear. Our expert technicians will check brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels to ensure your braking system is responsive and reliable.

2. AC Service and Repairs

Driving in the summer heat without a properly functioning air conditioning system can be unbearable. If your AC is blowing warm air, making strange noises, or not working at all, it’s time for a service. At Northside Auto Repair, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing AC issues, from refrigerant leaks to compressor problems, ensuring you stay cool and comfortable throughout your journey.

3. Coolant Flush

The engine’s cooling system works overtime during the summer to prevent overheating. A coolant flush is essential to remove old, contaminated coolant and replace it with fresh fluid. This helps maintain optimal engine temperature and prevents costly repairs due to overheating. Our team will thoroughly inspect your cooling system and perform a coolant flush to keep your engine running efficiently.

4. Windshield Wipers

Summer thunderstorms can strike unexpectedly, and having clear visibility is crucial for safe driving. Over time, windshield wipers can become cracked and ineffective. Replacing them before the rainy season ensures you can see clearly during downpours. We offer a range of high-quality wiper blades and will gladly install them for you.

Schedule with Northside

Summer driving can be challenging, but with proper maintenance, you can enjoy a smooth and trouble-free season on the road. At Northside Auto Repair, we’re here to help you with all your summer auto repair needs. Schedule an appointment today and let our experienced technicians keep your vehicle in peak condition.

Get Your Car Ready for Summer

As summer approaches, ensuring your vehicle is prepared for the hot months ahead is crucial. At Northside Auto Repair, we understand that a smooth-running car can make all the difference in your summer plans. From road trips to daily commutes, here are essential services to consider for a trouble-free summer.

Oil Changes

Regular oil changes are fundamental to maintaining your car’s engine health. During summer, high temperatures can cause engine oil to thin, reducing its effectiveness. By changing your oil, you ensure proper lubrication, preventing overheating and engine wear. It’s a simple step that can save you from costly repairs down the road.

Air Filter Change

Your car’s air filter plays a vital role in maintaining engine performance by keeping dust, dirt, and debris out. During the summer, increased pollen and dust levels can clog the filter faster, leading to reduced engine efficiency and higher fuel consumption. A new air filter will help your engine “breathe” better, improving performance and fuel economy.

Brake Inspection and Repair

Safety should always be a priority, and your brakes are critical to safe driving. With the extra driving that often comes with summer plans, it’s imperative to have your brakes inspected. We check for wear on brake pads, rotors, and other components to ensure they are in top condition. Addressing any issues early can prevent more severe damage and keep you safe on the road.

Annual AC Service

A properly functioning air conditioning system is a must for comfortable summer driving. Regular AC service can help identify and rectify issues like refrigerant leaks, worn-out components, or electrical problems. By keeping your AC in top shape, you ensure a cool and comfortable ride, no matter how high the temperatures climb.

Taking these steps to prepare your car for summer can lead to a smoother, cooler, and safer driving experience. At Northside Auto Repair, we’re dedicated to helping you enjoy your summer worry-free. Schedule your appointment today and let us take care of your vehicle’s summer readiness!

Breathe Easy This Spring with an Annual AC Service and Cabin Air Filter Replacement

Welcome to the Northside Auto Repair, where we aim to keep you informed, comfortable, and safe on the road. With spring upon us, many drivers look forward to warmer weather, but this season also brings challenges for vehicle owners, particularly when it comes to maintaining a clean and functional air conditioning system. Today, we’re discussing the crucial importance of scheduling your annual Air Conditioning (AC) Service and replacing your cabin air filter every spring.

Why an Annual AC Service Is Essential

Your vehicle’s air conditioning system plays a pivotal role beyond just keeping you cool during warmer months. It’s also vital for defogging your windshield and ensuring a comfortable environment free from dust and allergens. An annual AC service at Northside Auto Repair includes:

System Inspection: Checking for any signs of wear and tear on the AC components, including hoses, belts, and connections.
Performance Check: Ensuring the temperature and airflow meet the manufacturer’s specifications.
Refrigerant Level Test and Recharge: To keep your AC cooling effectively throughout the season.
Cleaning: Removing any bacteria and mold buildup within the system that can cause unpleasant odors.

The Importance of Replacing Your Cabin Air Filter

Spring brings an increase in pollen, dust, and other allergens that can significantly affect air quality in your vehicle. The cabin air filter is your first line of defense, designed to filter out these pollutants. However, over time, the filter can become clogged, reducing its effectiveness and potentially affecting the performance of your HVAC system, leading to:

Reduced airflow through your vents.
Increased allergens and pollutants inside your vehicle.
Unpleasant odors.

Replacing your cabin air filter every spring ensures you breathe clean, fresh air and enhances the overall performance of your vehicle’s air conditioning system.

Enjoy a Fresher, Cleaner Driving Experience

At Northside Auto Repair, we believe preventive maintenance is key to extending the life of your vehicle and ensuring your comfort and safety on the road. Our experienced technicians are here to provide a comprehensive AC service and cabin air filter replacement, preparing your vehicle to tackle the challenges of spring and beyond.

Don’t wait for the first hot day or an unexpected allergy flare-up to remind you of your AC system’s needs. Schedule your appointment today and ensure your spring drives are as comfortable and refreshing as a cool spring breeze.

Keep Things Flowing – Fluid Checks and Flushes

The Importance of Fluid Checks and Flushes this Winter 🌡️💦

At Northside Auto Repair, we understand the importance of regular vehicle maintenance, especially during the winter season. One of the critical areas we focus on is your vehicle’s fluids. From the coolant that prevents your engine from freezing to the oil that guarantees smooth operation, maintaining these fluids at optimal levels is essential. In this blog post, we delve deeper into why fluid checks and flushes are a must-do for every car owner this winter.

Why are Fluid Checks Important?

The lifeblood of your car, quite literally, is its fluids. They lubricate, cool, clean, and protect the various components of your vehicle. Without them, your car would not run. Thus, it’s vital to keep these fluids at their optimal levels.

When temperatures drop, these fluids can thicken or even freeze, leading to suboptimal performance or, worse, significant damage. Regular fluid checks ensure that your vehicle is always running at peak efficiency, regardless of the weather conditions.

The Role of Coolant in Winter

Many people associate coolant with summer, but it plays an equally important role in winter. Coolant, also known as antifreeze, prevents the engine’s water from freezing in cold temperatures. If the coolant level is low or the mixture isn’t right, it could lead to a frozen engine – a problem no one wants to encounter on a chilly winter morning.

The Importance of Oil Changes

Engine oil is another critical fluid that needs regular attention. It lubricates the engine, reducing friction and heat build-up, and helps to prevent engine wear. In winter, the cold temperatures can cause the oil to thicken, making it harder for it to circulate and do its job. Regular oil changes will ensure your engine has fresh, high-quality oil that can withstand the cold temperatures.

Starting the Season with a Full Fluid Flush

To ensure your vehicle is ready for the winter season, we recommend starting off with a full fluid flush. This process involves removing the old fluids and replacing them with fresh ones. It’s an excellent way to remove any build-up of dirt or sediment and ensure your vehicle’s fluids are in the best possible condition for the winter months ahead.

At Northside Auto Repair, we’re here to help keep things flowing smoothly this winter. Schedule your fluid check or full fluid flush with us today, and let’s ensure your vehicle is in top shape for the cold season. Remember, prevention is always better than cure.

Stay tuned for more tips from our Winter Maintenance Checklist series. #FluidCheck #WinterMaintenance

Know your rotors, repair your brakes.

Do you think you are having brake problems? More specifically rotors? Proper maintenance and service of your brakes is a top safety priority. The surface of the rotor is just as important as its thickness. This is why most rotors are coated, such as an anti-rust coating. This coating helps to protect the rotor from corrosion, reduce noise and vibration and improve braking power. Rotors also have different types of ventilation, such as vented rotors and cross-drilled rotors. These allow the brake pads to cool more quickly and reduce heat stress on the rotor surface. The type of ventilation used depends on the driving conditions, so it’s important to get professional advice when choosing a rotor for your vehicle.

At Northside, we always make sure you use quality brake pads when replacing your rotors. Cheap, low-grade brake pads can wear down the rotor more quickly and increase the risk of damage. Quality brake pads are designed to work in harmony with rotors to provide maximum braking performance and safety. Remember that good brakes are essential for safe driving, so always get professional advice before making any changes to your braking system. Your technician can inspect, diagnose and repair any brake problems you may have and suggest the best solution for your vehicle. This way, you can be sure that your brakes will keep you safe on the road.

Rotors Wear Out

Sometimes, Rotors may no longer be able to be machined and operate safely. When this happens it is time to replace the rotor completely. Schedule a brake inspection with Northside Auto Repair to have the rotors replaced using quality parts. https://northsideautorepair.com/ This will ensure that your car is safe to drive and that the brakes perform as they should. Brake pads are also part of what we inspect in a brake inspection. We believe the use of quality pads can extend the life of your rotors. Brake pads play an essential role in the safe and effective operation of your brakes. Brake pads provide a cushion between the rotor and brake caliper, causing them to press together when you step on the brake pedal, creating friction that slows down your car.

We understand how important your safety is, so we always make sure to inspect your brakes and replace any worn or damaged components with quality parts. Brake maintenance is essential for keeping you safe on the roads, so don’t hesitate to contact Northside Auto Repair for your brake service needs. We’ll get you safely running and stopping in no time! Fixing Brakes can be complicated. Let us help keep you.

Springtime Brake Inspection

Why You Need to Get Your Brakes Checked at Northside Auto Repair, a Neighborhood NAPA AutoCare Center

At Northside Auto Repair, we understand that vehicle safety is a top priority for you and your family. That’s why we highly recommend getting your brakes checked regularly. Don’t wait until it’s too late to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Importance of Regular Brake Inspections

Regular brake inspections are essential because they identify any issues before they become major problems. Our team of ASE certified mechanics at Northside Auto Repair will inspect all brake components, including brake pads, shoes, rotors, drums, and calipers, using state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment.

Addressing these problems promptly can help you avoid costly repairs or complete brake failure. By having your brakes inspected regularly, you can have peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is safely equipped to stop.

What Can Go Wrong with Brake Parts?

Brake systems are comprised of multiple parts that work in unison to bring your vehicle to a stop. Over time, these parts can become worn, damaged or corroded, leading to reduced braking performance and potential failure.

The most common issues with brake systems are worn brake pads and rotors. When brake pads wear down, the metal backing plate starts rubbing against the rotor, causing a metal-on-metal grinding sound and reduced stopping power. In extreme cases, brake pads can completely wear down, leaving the metal backing plate to grind against the rotor, causing severe damage and complete brake failure.

Similarly, rotors can become overheated, warped, or corroded, leading to a shuddering sensation or pulsating brake pedal when you apply the brakes. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to complete brake failure, putting you, passengers, and other drivers on the road in danger.

Get Up to $50 Back on New NAPA Brakes and Components

This month, customers who have new NAPA Brakes and components installed at Northside Auto Repair can get up to $50 back. NAPA Brakes are designed to provide superior stopping power, noise-free performance, and longer life, backed by the NAPA’s nationwide Peace-of-Mind Warranty.

Your safety is our top priority. Contact Northside Auto Repair, your neighborhood NAPA AutoCare Center, today to schedule a brake inspection. Contact us today to learn more about this offer.

Item Most Stolen from Vehicles?

Airbags are top stolen item

What item is most often stolen from vehicles?

Is it:
(A) Stereo
(B) Wheels
(C) Air Bag
(D) DVD System

Well, if you said stereo – you used to be right. But airbags have now surpassed stereos as the biggest target for theft – approximately 50,000 a year nationally in the United States. New airbags cost about $1,000 but go for $50 to $200 on the black market. Stolen airbags are making their way back into vehicles that have been in an accident in Albuquerque. Of course, the danger to the consumer of having a stolen airbag installed is that you can never be sure what may have previously affected them and if they will work right when you need them.

There are reports that 1 in 25 airbag replacements are stolen or salvaged airbags – or no airbag is installed at all.

[box type=”alert” size=”large” style=”rounded” border=”full”]2022 Update! Your catalytic converter is a prime target for the same reasons as airbags. Ask your Service Advisor about theft protection options.[/box]

That is definitely a part you don’t want to take a chance with, so we recommend following the following guidelines:

Use a reputable collision repair center like Northside Auto Repair that employs ASE certified mechanics.
Inspect the invoice to ensure that the repair shop purchased the airbag from a NM manufacturer, dealer or recycler.
If you can inspect the airbag prior to installation, it should be packaged in a sealed container from the manufacturer or recycler.

You will see the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) light when you first start your vehicle up. This tells you that the airbag system is activated. If you do not see the SRS light, there is a problem with the airbag system.

How well do you know your Fuel System?

Come with the technician at Northside Auto Repair as we give you a quick overview of the fuel system.

It starts with the fuel tank. The fuel pump is located inside the tank and pumps fuel out to the engine. Somewhere along the way is a fuel filter whose job is to filter out dirt before it hits the engine.

Then there’s the fuel intake system and the fuel injectors that deliver the fuel to be burned in the engine. Our focus is to discuss how to make the various components of your fuel system work well and last as long as possible. The best thing you can do for your fuel pump is to use good quality fuel. Top tier or “premium” gas typically has fewer contaminants and more detergents to keep things clean. Using good gas, or adding a fuel system cleaner to your tank, can prolong the life of your fuel pump. Because the fuel pump lives inside your tank, it’s pretty expensive to replace, so helping it last as long as possible is a worthwhile goal.

The fuel filter catches dirt and contaminants. When it’s clogged, your vehicle engine may not be able to get enough fuel and could sputter. Many fuel filters have a bypass valve that allows unfiltered fuel past when the filter’s clogged. That prevents your engine from dying while you’re driving around , but it can’t protect your engine from dirty fuel. Check your owner’s manual or talk with your friendly and knowledgeable Northside Auto Repair about when you should replace your fuel filter.
Now fuel will cause gum and varnish to build up in the fuel intake system. A professional fuel system cleaning at Northside Auto Repair will remove the gunk to keep fuel flowing freely and help prevent contamination from reaching your fuel injectors and your engine. Fuel injectors squirt fuel into the engine. The fuel must be delivered in a precise amount, at a precise time, under precise pressure and in a precise pattern. Pressure can range from 45 pounds per square inch to 45,000 pounds per square inch depending on the engine.

As you may guess, fuel injectors cost a lot in the area. Allowing them to get gummed up will not only hurt your performance, it will cause the injectors to wear out much more quickly than they should. A professional Northside Auto Repair fuel system cleaning will keep injectors clean and working correctly. It’ll also clean deposits from the inside of the combustion chamber and off the intake valves, giving you optimum performance and mileage. Check with your friendly and knowledgeable Northside Auto Repair and see when the service advisor recommends you get a fuel system cleaning.